It's January in Texas and we are firmly in the grip of "cedar fever;" many of us suffer from severe allergies from December to February when cedar trees pollinate.
But cedar isn't all bad; in fact, it's one of the best building materials for outdoor structures like gazebos, pergolas and arbors. What makes cedar products so great?
10 Reasons Why Cedar is So Great
Here are ten reasons why cedar is a top choice for building materials.
1. Cedar is strong and durable
Cedar handles paint and stain in a uniform fashion. It is also split-, crack-, and water-resistant. The durability of this type of wood is known to be tremendous, having provided materials for shingles that have lasted well over 100 years.
2. Cedar is easy to work with
Because cedar is much lower on the density scale than many other wood types, it is easy to cut and shape, making it great for a variety of projects. This wood is very lightweight and boasts a naturally straight grain.
3. Cedar is beautiful
Cedarwood is a naturally beautiful wood to use in almost any application. It's a durable softwood timber that has a uniform texture, straight grain, and few knots. Cedarwood also produces a fresh and appealing aroma. Aesthetically, it is naturally stunning with its deep tones and textured wood grains.
4. Cedar is naturally resistant to insects
The oil in cedarwood is naturally antibacterial, antifungal, and pest-resistant; it can control pests like termites, ants, moths, mosquitoes, and cockroaches.
5. Cedar doesn’t swell, warp or decay
Since cedarwood primarily grows in damp climates, it’s become naturally weather-resistant over the years. Typically, it does not splinter. Cedarwood can be placed under extreme conditions such as drastic changes in humidity and temperature. The oil in cedar will allow it to bead up and resist water naturally.
6. Cedar is naturally sound resistant
Cedar is a porous wood, which gives it the ability to absorb noise.
7. Cedar provides excellent thermal insulation
Cedarwood has large cell cavities that are composed of air. This factor is why it has traditionally been used as siding, roofs and sheds.
8. Cedar is very low-maintenance
Although we recommend a light water-based stain to lengthen the life of cedar products, it doesn't have to be stained, varnished or waterproofed like other woods.
9. Cedar is naturally cool
Cedar has a high thermal coefficient, meaning even on hot days, it's cool to sit in.
10. Cedar is environmentally friendly
Completely natural, cedar is environmentally superior to synthetic products. It has a negative greenhouse gas effect, meaning it actually removes these gases from the atmosphere, and it’s renewable, biodegradable, and sourced from the most sustainable forests in the world.
Conclusion: Cedar Products are a Great Choice
Cedar is, therefore, an ideal choice for backyard structures like gazebos, pergolas, arbors and trellises. Cedar products will give you years of stress-free enjoyment.
Our Best-Selling Cedar Products for the Backyard
Here are some of our best-selling and most beloved 100% cedar products:
Yardistry 12 x 14 Meridian Gazebo 100% Cedar with Aluminum Roof
$2,999.80
Expand your outdoor living space with the 12’ x 14’ Meridian Gazebo. The Wood Gazebo with Aluminum Roof adds character to any area, creating the perfect setting for all your outdoor entertainment needs. The stunning design features an Aluminum Roof,… Read More
Yardistry 6.7’ x 7.8’ Meridian Greenhouse
$2,179.80
If you have a green thumb, the 6.7 ft. x 7.8 ft. Meridian Greenhouse is the perfect addition to your home. Its 6-foot-high side walls make it comfortable for standing and help ensure proper airflow. The 32-inch-high cedar base walls are… Read More
Yardistry 14 x 10 Madison Pergola with Sunshade & Bar Counter
$2,099.80
$2,499.00
Extend your outdoor living space with the Madison Pergola and bring indoor living outside. The Madison Pergola adds character to any area creating the perfect setting for all your outdoor entertainment needs. The unique design includes a bar and counter… Read More
Yardistry 11 x 13 Carolina Pavilion 100% Cedar with Aluminum Roof
$2,689.80
Expand your outdoor living space with the Carolina Pavilion. The Carolina Pavilion adds character to any area, creating the perfect setting for all your outdoor entertainment needs. The stunning design features a coffee brown aluminum roof, sturdy posts with classic… Read More
Yardistry 12' Meridian Octagon Gazebo Kit 100% Cedar with Aluminum Roof
$3,079.80
The Yardistry 12’ Meridian Octagon Gazebo will create an intimate space in your backyard that invites relaxation and conversation in a shady setting. Eight sturdy 4 by 4 inch laminated posts support the structure and a 36 inch high guardrail with… Read More
$1,269.99
A genuine “grill master” needs a truly special working environment. The Meridian Grilling Pavilion is the perfect place to do some serious barbecuing, rain or shine. There’s plenty of room underneath for grills, smokers, food carts, worktables, and an entire… Read MoreYardistry Meridian Grilling Pavilion 100% Cedar with Aluminum Roof
$1,689.80